DEAR HARRIETTE: Last week I received an email about one of my friends from this crazy lady in town. The email was horrible and degrading. It took hits on other women in town, as well as my friend's children and other family members. About 100 people received this letter, and it makes me feel very uncomfortable. Everyone is talking about it, and I can only imagine how upset and embarrassed my friend feels. I am unsure as to what I am supposed to do about this. Should I call my friend and let her know that I have seen this letter? Should I just delete it and pretend I never saw it? -- Indecisive, Saginaw, Michigan
DEAR INDECISIVE: Definitely contact your friend. Tell her that you received the email, and you want to make sure she is OK. Ask her if she has seen it. If not, forward it to her immediately. Find out from her what she wants to do about it.
Sometimes such an action is so heinous that it warrants calling the authorities. Other times, people choose to ignore it and chalk it up to someone having a bad day. Your friend will need to determine what is best for her. Since the email writer chose to speak negatively about children, your friend may have a case to file to get her to cease and desist.
To your main question, absolutely you should be in touch with your friend and let her know that you want to support her in any way that you can.